The $35 million renovation of the Plaza Hotel is still taking place. It is scheduled to be ready for reopening by this summer.
Economical Thinking
One of the main reasons behind the renovations of the hotel is to try and cut costs on running the establishment. For example, 45 watt bulbs are being replaced with the 3 watt variety. Fixtures and furnishings were brought from the Fontainebleau, which was never actually opened and that has helped in cutting costs. In fact, nearly all that was needed for the rooms was acquired from this source, from beds and chairs to marble and carpeting. The remaining pieces were purchased from Buffalo Bill’s, which is located in Primm.
Although the actual cost on how much was paid for the Fontainebleau deal wasn’t disclosed, the CEO of PlayLV, Tony Santo, described it as “cents on the dollar.”
The Renovation
Although bought at a bargain price, the renovated hotel doesn’t give that feel at all. The rooms are very modern in appearance and are equipped with high-quality chrome fixtures, stunning Jacuzzi tubs, and beautiful marble bathrooms. All the rooms have sitting rooms as well as couches, brand new linen, and wall coverings.
The design has been described as an amalgamation of both old and modern Las Vegas. Old photographs and murals will be blended in with brand new furnishings. Although the aim is to renovate the building, the operators also want to honor the casino’s 40-year-old history.
“The whole thing is trying to get the existing customers that were here mixed in with some new customers,” explained Steven Rosen, Chief Marketing Officer. “We want everyone to feel comfortable.”
Santo went on to add, “It’s more of a traditional Las Vegas experience downtown, but then you have Fremont East where you have that new generation of customers coming down here.”
Currently, the main floor of the Plaza Hotel has been completely gutted and soon new table games, slots, and a sports book will be added. Restaurants and bars will be located around the edge; however, no information on who will supply the food and drink has been released.
The Plaza Hotel had not been renovated for a long time, about two decades, and so this is a welcome move. In fact, it’s being viewed more as an update.
“I wouldn’t even call this a renovation. It’s a complete remodel,” explained Santo. “I think when the Plaza closed; people didn’t believe what we could do. It’s a big investment in the Plaza and a big investment in downtown.”
A New Feel
The Plaza Hotel is leaving behind its Rat Pack Show and moving on to offer more modern entertainment. However, the showroom will be kept as it was, making it one of the only showrooms to stay the same throughout the years.
Talks are currently underway, as to how the Plaza will be marketed. Rosen explained that they want people to go out specifically for the hotel: “That’s really what we want — the people who are coming to Vegas to say ‘Hey, there’s a new experience.’”